Joran Gerbet #6 of the Clemson Tigers
The 2024 MLS SuperDraft was a day of significant anticipation for fans, even though the league’s decision not to broadcast or stream the event left many frustrated. Despite that, the Orlando City Lions made key moves to bolster their roster, starting with their first pick at No. 27 overall. Here’s a breakdown of how the Lions used their selections to continue building toward a future MLS Cup contender.
Orlando City Starts Strong with Joran Gerbet
At the 27th pick in the first round, Orlando City selected Joran Gerbet, a 23-year-old midfielder from Clemson. Gerbet, originally from Valence, France, had an impressive collegiate career, with a rich history at both Oregon State University and Clemson. He earned recognition as a 2024 Mac Hermann Trophy semifinalist, was named ACC Midfielder of the Year, and made the United Soccer Coaches All-America first team.
The 5-foot-11 midfielder played a crucial role in Clemson’s 2023 National Championship win and was a standout contributor throughout his college career. Over the course of 78 games, Gerbet recorded 12 goals and 15 assists, with 10 goals and 11 assists coming in his final two seasons at Clemson. His development into a more dynamic offensive weapon was highlighted by his increase in shots on target, solidifying his growth as a professional prospect.
Gerbet is expected to play as a No. 8 for Orlando City, and he may even join the Orlando City B (OCB) team in 2025 as he continues to adapt to MLS. While it’s uncertain whether he will make an immediate impact on the first team, his combination of vision, passing, and offensive upside makes him an exciting addition for the Lions.
Titus Sandy Brings Defensive Depth to the Lions
Orlando City followed up their first-round pick by selecting another Clemson player, Titus Sandy, Jr., with the No. 46 pick in the second round. Sandy, a 6-foot center back from Charlotte, North Carolina, has a solid college career behind him, including a role on Clemson’s championship-winning team. Over four seasons, he played 48 matches and started 24 of them, with 17 starts coming in his senior year.
While Sandy may not have made a huge impact on the scoresheet—his four assists in his senior year were the bulk of his contributions—his ability to control the backline will make him an intriguing prospect for Orlando. Center back is a position of need for the Lions, and Sandy’s potential to develop into a reliable defensive option could make him an asset. Orlando will likely give him a long look in camp, and if he shows promise, he could land a contract or continue his development with OCB.
Collins Oduro: A Forward to Watch
With the No. 57 overall pick, Orlando City went for an offensive boost, selecting Collins Oduro, a Ghanaian forward from Indiana. The 20-year-old had an impressive two-year stint with the Hoosiers, scoring eight goals and adding seven assists in 44 appearances. Oduro helped lead Indiana to the 2023 Big Ten regular season and tournament titles, and his four game-winning goals demonstrate his ability to step up in crucial moments.
Though Oduro’s age and lack of professional experience might make him a longer-term project for Orlando, he’s a promising forward with good potential. His inclusion on the 2023 Big Ten All-Freshman Team and Academic All-Big Ten honors highlight his all-around capabilities. He’ll likely see time with OCB before earning a potential call-up to the first team if he can continue his development.
Takihiro Fujita Brings Youthful Energy to Defense
In the third round, Orlando City took a flyer on 20-year-old Takahiro Fujita, a Japanese-born defender out of Marshall University. Fujita played a key role for Marshall, helping the Thundering Herd to the national championship match. A versatile center back standing at 6-foot-2, Fujita played 40 matches in his two years at Marshall, starting 27 of them and contributing one goal and four assists.
Fujita’s youth and potential make him a candidate for Orlando City B, where he could further develop his skills before potentially making the jump to the first team. His solid defensive record, which included 11 clean sheets and only 20 goals conceded in 2024, shows he has the tools to become a valuable contributor on the backline.
Looking Ahead
Overall, Orlando City’s 2024 SuperDraft selections represent a strategic mix of proven talent and promising potential. While none of these players are expected to immediately change the course of the team, all of them have the tools to grow into contributors in the coming seasons.
The selection of Gerbet provides an exciting prospect in midfield, while Sandy and Fujita add much-needed depth to the defense. Oduro, a younger forward, has the chance to develop into a key piece for the future.
As Orlando continues to build a championship-caliber squad, these draft picks reflect the club’s commitment to long-term success. Fans will be eager to see how these players develop over the next few years, and it’s clear that Orlando’s front office is setting the foundation for a promising future.
